making traction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "making traction" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe gaining momentum or progress in a particular area, such as a project or idea. Example: "Our new marketing strategy is finally making traction, and we are starting to see an increase in customer engagement."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Transporting the feed to impacted areas was also difficult, as ashfall covered roads and mixed with snow, making traction very difficult.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

You won't want to share a lofty goal with someone, only to tell them in subsequent conversations that you're not making traction to reaching your goal.

Forbes

Trucks were only operated on roads with thin to moderate ash falls (<50 mm of compacted ash), but the main access road into the Ibáñez valley became covered in heavy ash deposits making traction difficult.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

Starting on the 'dirty' side of the track, with tyre debris making traction difficult to find, Hamilton failed in an attempt to pass Webber and allowed Ferrari's Fernando Alonso and team-mate Button through to relegate him to sixth.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

But sport utilities made traction fashionable, even if they falsely promised immunity from the laws of physics.

The New York Times

On the other hand, friction between the tires and the road and in the brake shoes makes traction and braking possible.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But perhaps they can lend their experience to help you make traction.

Forbes

I can't make traction.

Huffington Post

Since it was not technically possible to make traction force measurements within 3-D microwells, an indirect approach was instead utilized.

Plosone

To make traction stick better, put wax or traction pads on your board.

WikiHow

Find your passion, build a business that can make money, establish traction and surround yourself with a solid team.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "making traction" when you want to emphasize that something is beginning to show noticeable progress or gain momentum, especially after initial difficulties or stagnation. For example, "After a slow start, the project is finally making traction."

Common error

Avoid using "making traction" in very informal or casual conversations. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or business-like in relaxed settings. Opt for simpler phrases like "it's working out" or "things are moving forward".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "making traction" functions as a gerund phrase, often used as part of a verb phrase to describe the act of gaining momentum or progress. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically sound and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "making traction" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies gaining momentum or showing progress. According to Ludwig, it is typically used to describe projects or ideas that are beginning to show positive results. While not exceedingly common, it finds its place in news, science, and business contexts. Alternatives include "gaining momentum" or "gaining ground", making it a valuable addition to formal and professional communication. Its frequency is rated as uncommon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaining momentum

Focuses more on the increasing speed of progress, rather than the progress itself.

gaining ground

Emphasizes advancing or improving position relative to others.

gaining headway

Highlights overcoming obstacles and moving forward despite challenges.

making progress

A more general term for advancing towards a goal.

advancing rapidly

Emphasizes the speed of the forward movement or success.

getting ahead

Suggests surpassing others in a competitive context.

gaining purchase

Focuses on establishing a firm hold or influence.

making strides

Implies significant and noticeable advancements.

gaining acceptance

Focuses specifically on increasing approval or popularity.

becoming established

Suggests forming stable foundations or being validated.

FAQs

What does "making traction" mean?

"Making traction" means gaining momentum or showing progress in a particular endeavor or activity. It implies that initial efforts are starting to yield noticeable results.

How can I use "making traction" in a sentence?

You can use "making traction" to describe the progress of a project, a business, or even personal goals. For example, "Our marketing campaign is finally "gaining traction"", or "The new software is "making good traction" in the market".

What are some alternatives to "making traction"?

Alternatives to "making traction" include "gaining momentum", "gaining ground", "making progress", or "gaining headway". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to use "making traction" in formal or informal settings?

"Making traction" is generally more appropriate in formal or professional settings. In informal contexts, simpler and more casual phrases might be better suited.